Agriculture and Food Systems Program

The County of Hawaiʻi Department of Research and Development administers the Impact Grants program as part of its broader mission to enhance the quality of life for Hawaiʻi Island residents through balanced economic, social, and environmental development. This specific funding opportunity falls under the Agriculture and Food Systems Program and is issued as Request for Proposals (RFP) No. 26AG-01 for the fiscal year period spanning July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027. The Department seeks to invest in projects that generate measurable, positive community impacts, particularly those that strengthen agricultural productivity, food systems resilience, and local economic sustainability across Hawaiʻi Island communities. The primary purpose of this grant program is to support research initiatives, community-based programs, and applied projects that align with defined program objectives. These objectives include increasing consumption of locally produced agricultural goods, improving agricultural production and resilience, and fostering collaboration and innovation within the food system. Projects may address issues such as pest control, workforce development, value-added product marketing, and education aimed at enhancing local food systems. All funded proposals must demonstrate a clear public or community benefit and align with the Department’s goal of generating equitable and economic outcomes for island residents. Funding for this opportunity totals $90,000, with individual awards ranging from $10,000 to $25,000. Grant funds must be used for eligible project-related expenses such as equipment, personnel, supplies, marketing, and consultant services. However, several restrictions apply: funds cannot be used for alcohol purchases, travel expenses, fundraising, startup costs, or proposal preparation. Administrative costs are capped at 10 percent of the total award. Additionally, applicants are required to provide a 25 percent match, which may include cash or in-kind contributions, and must submit verifiable documentation of these matching funds within 30 days of award notification. Eligibility is limited to nonprofit organizations either incorporated in the State of Hawaiʻi or recognized as tax-exempt by the Internal Revenue Service. Applicants must demonstrate at least one year of relevant experience, maintain appropriate governance structures and policies, and ensure staff capacity to execute the proposed project. Organizations must also be compliant with all applicable federal, state, and county regulations, and provide documentation including bylaws, financial statements, and proof of tax-exempt status. The program emphasizes organizational capacity, fiscal accountability, and alignment with community needs. Applications must be submitted exclusively through the Department’s online grant portal, and only complete submissions that adhere to specified formatting and documentation requirements will be considered. Required components include a project abstract, a detailed narrative addressing community need and impact, a budget and budget narrative, and supporting organizational documents. The proposal narrative must clearly define project goals, activities, measurable outcomes, and evaluation methods. The Department employs a multi-phase evaluation process that assesses proposals based on criteria such as community need, project impact, feasibility, organizational capacity, partnerships, and fiscal accountability. The application timeline is clearly defined. The RFP was issued on June 10, 2026, with an informational webinar held on June 16, 2026. Written questions must be submitted by July 10, 2026, and responses are provided by July 17, 2026. The final application deadline is August 10, 2026 at 4:30 p.m. Hawaiʻi-Aleutian Standard Time. Award notifications are expected by September 9, 2026, followed by contract execution through September 30, 2026. The contract period lasts for twelve months from execution. Applicants are encouraged to monitor the official website for updates and addenda throughout the application period. For additional information or clarification, applicants may contact the Department of Research and Development via email at chresdev@hawaiicounty.gov or by phone at (808) 961-8366. All official communications, including responses to applicant questions and any amendments to the RFP, are posted on the Department’s Impact Grant webpage. This ensures transparency and equal access to information for all prospective applicants.

Align project clearly with stated program objectives and demonstrate measurable community impact with strong supporting evidence and realistic budget justification